Stephen King has written nearly a hundred books, earning him the title of master of horror. His stories have been adapted countless times for the screen, but not all adaptations are created equal. Netflix offers a solid selection of King's works, from supernatural thrillers to psychological dramas. Here's our ranked guide to the best Stephen King movies and shows you can stream right now.
7. 'Firestarter' (2022)
Directed by Keith Thomas, this sci-fi horror thriller is a remake of the 1984 film based on King's 1980 novel. It follows Charlie McGee (Ryan Kiera Armstrong), a young girl with dangerous pyrokinetic abilities, as she is hunted by a secret government agency. The cast includes Zac Efron, Sydney Lemmon, and Kurtwood Smith. Unfortunately, the 2022 version received harsh reviews, with a 10% Rotten Tomatoes score, criticized for its uninspired narrative and lack of thrills. However, its campy quality might appeal to genre fans looking for pure escapism.
6. 'In the Tall Grass' (2019)
Co-written by King and his son Joe Hill, this Canadian supernatural horror thriller is directed by Vincenzo Natali. It follows a pregnant woman and her brother who are lured into a vast field of grass by a child's cry for help, only to become lost in a terrifying maze. Starring Harrison Gilbertson, Laysla De Oliveira, and Patrick Wilson, the film excels in creating a claustrophobic atmosphere and cosmic horror. Critics praised its faithfulness to the novella and Wilson's compelling performance.
5. 'Mr. Harrigan's Phone' (2022)
Written and directed by John Lee Hancock, this adaptation of King's novella from If It Bleeds blends supernatural horror with coming-of-age drama. It tells the story of Craig (Jaeden Martell), a teenager who befriends a billionaire (Donald Sutherland). After Harrigan dies, Craig discovers he can communicate with him through his phone. The film explores grief, technology addiction, and revenge in a character-driven narrative. While it received mixed reviews, King himself called it "brilliant," and fans of the author will appreciate its emotional depth.
4. '11.22.63' (2016)
This Hulu miniseries, produced by J.J. Abrams and developed by Bridget Carpenter, is based on King's 2011 novel. James Franco stars as Jake Epping, a teacher who travels back to the 1960s to prevent JFK's assassination. The show blends history, conspiracy theory, and time travel into a thrilling narrative. Franco's performance has been compared to Old Hollywood stars, and the series is praised for its well-crafted storytelling. It's a must-watch for fans of sci-fi thrillers.
3. '1922' (2017)
Based on King's novella from Full Dark, No Stars, this Netflix original film is a grim psychological horror. Thomas Jane stars as Wilfred James, a farmer who convinces his son to help him murder his wife for financial gain. The film explores guilt, paranoia, and the haunting consequences of their crime. With a Rotten Tomatoes score of 91%, it's praised for its atmospheric tension and Jane's powerful performance. It's a slow-burn horror that lingers long after the credits roll.
2. 'Gerald's Game' (2017)
Directed by Mike Flanagan, this Netflix adaptation of King's 1992 novel is a masterclass in psychological horror. Carla Gugino stars as Jessie, a woman who becomes handcuffed to a bed after her husband dies of a heart attack during a sex game. Alone and trapped, she must confront her inner demons and a mysterious figure in the corner. The film is lauded for its intense performances and Flanagan's direction, earning a 91% Rotten Tomatoes score. It's a gripping survival story that proves King's work can be terrifying without supernatural elements.
1. 'The Mist' (2007)
While not a Netflix original, Frank Darabont's adaptation of King's novella is available on the platform and remains one of the best. A mysterious mist envelops a small town, trapping residents in a supermarket where they face both monstrous creatures and human hysteria. The film boasts a strong cast, including Thomas Jane and Marcia Gay Harden, and a famously bleak ending that King himself praised. It's a tense, thought-provoking horror that explores fear and morality. For fans of action-thriller masterpieces, this is a must-see.
Whether you're a longtime King fan or new to his work, these adaptations offer a range of scares and stories. From the time-traveling intrigue of 11.22.63 to the claustrophobic terror of In the Tall Grass, Netflix has something for every horror lover. For more on the best sci-fi thrillers, check out our list of the most realistic sci-fi movies ever made.
